Chronic dizziness

Posted by mnmimi @mnmimi, May 15 3:37pm

Apologies if this should be posted elsewhere, new to this! I had an acute episode of vertigo in October. Went to the ER to rule out stroke, and was referred to PT where I was taught the Epley maneuver. However, prior to this episode and definitely thereafter, I have had this vague sense of imbalance, Disorientation, etc. The extreme spinning that led me to the ER has not recurred, but the day-to-day is troublesome. I am fine sitting down, driving, etc. It is more when I am up and on my feet and moving around in space. I also have had rheumatoid arthritis for many years and I am on multiple medication’s which I’ve tolerated for decades.

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frouke | @frouke | May 15 6:07pm

It’s possible that perhaps you need a change in medication, you mentioned 20 years and it could be an intolerance causing side effects, I had this years ago and I was given a new medication and it worked. I also would strongly recommend that you see your doctor soon because dizziness always should be checked out. It sounds like you’re very sensitive and self aware, this is a very good thing for your own health, good wishes.

mnmimi | @mnmimi | May 15 8:43pm

Thank you. My RA is so stable I am reluctant to rock the boat with med changes. My rheumatologist is aware but been dismissive of the dizziness.
When the sudden episode occurred last fall, I went to the ER to rule out stroke. I had an MRI, had a stress test, and wore a heart monitor. All normal. And PT. To add to the fun, my opthamologist is currently treating me for double vision. No indication that the 2 are connected (vision and dizziness) but seems they could be.
Another post refers to “floating” and that is a perfect description.

seniormed | @seniormed | May 15 8:58pm

Have you been monitored for orthostatic hypotension. Chronic inflammation
can alter your autonomic nerves controlling heart rate and blood pressure?

sstopalian | @sstopalian | May 16 5:47am

Have you had your eyes checked? Could be vestibular.

dlydailyhope | @dlydailyhope | May 16 5:57am

@mnmimi
How is your blood pressure and have you seen a cardiologist?

Have you seen a neurologist for evaluation and testing? Did you have a MRI done of your brain and cervical spine to check for changes that could be behind your symptoms? Have you had a skin punch biopsy to test for small fiber neuropathy or EMG/nerve conduction study to test for large fiber neuropathy?

crn | @crn | May 16 6:49am

There is so much that can lead to dizziness, that’s for sure. I have had BPPV PT on 3 different occasions over the years. The most recent was identified as being related to a prescription Flonase for my allergies. Once I eliminated it from my daily routine meds, and with the help of PT, the dizziness subsided. But this time there was lingering imbalance. That was my sign to start balance exercises again for me. Balance exercises in a pool were especially helpful to me because I could stand on one foot for minutes, not just seconds, among the many other benefits of pool exercise/therapy.

mnmimi | @mnmimi | May 16 8:15am

In reply to @sstopalian "Have you had your eyes checked? Could be vestibular." + (show)

Yes being currently assessed/treated for double vision so 🤞

mnmimi | @mnmimi | May 16 8:20am

In reply to @dlydailyhope "@mnmimi How is your blood pressure and have you seen a cardiologist? Have you seen a..." + (show)

Yes to blood pressure/cardiologist/MRI. Not familiar with the other diagnostics and PCP/rheumatologist/ophthalmologist have not recommended.

edsutton | @edsutton | May 16 8:20am

Please make sure your home is equipped with grab bars and other emergency supports, such as a strong, tall foot board on your bed to steady you when you stand.

Annie | @mlenney167 | May 18 2:02pm

I had one incident of vertigo but also a feeling of lightheadedness that was more frequent, especially when exercising. The Epley maneuver - after I learned how to do it correctly- seemed to help, but turns out the ‘dizzy’ feeling was from acute dehydration. I’ve been trying to drink at least 64 ounces of water a day, a challenge for me, but it’s helped.